short attention span
Todays students have been brought up where all media tries to give as much info as they can into as small a time spot as possible. It almost seems that they are trying to give us a subliminal flash of information to get their point across. Wouldn't that be fun to try! It is no wonder that the students can't listen or sit still for more than a few minutes. We have the job of trying to slow them down and get the information into their heads. Short lectures, followed by demos and hands on practice takes the main points to them and helps them understand the subjects we are teaching.
I think it's also that they are used to getting the information they want without having to work much for it. They can get the answers they want right away off the internet. I find it challenging to not just give up and become a 'yes man' giving them the answers they want because it is easier. Finding ways to teach them to be self sufficient and to improve their skills, at the same time not being an enabler, is very important.
Hi Ronald,
Well said and a good perspective on learning. There certainly challenges facing an instructor today with all of the media choices and competition that learners face.
Gary
Ron , i totally agree , not dragging info out , short lectures or breaks in longer lectures with activities in between keeps them more alert and in the learning mode as they can never know what direction you might change.
